Elected Kings of Medieval India | Gopala and Nandivarman
Gopala (Pala dynasty) and Nandivarman II (Pallava dynasty) were notably elected or chosen through a process of public consensus rather than simple inheritance.
Primary Reference: Standard Educational Reference
Archived:
Updated:
Exam Year
2021
Evidence Source
UPSC Level
Which of the following king/kings was/were elected/chosen directly by the public?
1. Harshavardhan
2. Gopal
3. Yashovarman
4. Nandivarman Pallavamalla
[UP RO/ARO Prelims 2021]
Detailed Solution & Historical Context
Concept
While kingship in India was traditionally hereditary, rare instances of popular election or consensus choice occurred during periods of extreme anarchy or the end of a bloodline.
Authentic Source Evidence
Gopala (c. 750 CE) was chosen by a group of chieftains to end the lawlessness (Matsyanyaya) in Bengal. Nandivarman II (Pallavamalla) was chosen through a popular election by the subjects and elders of the Pallava kingdom after a succession crisis.
Analytical Breakdown
Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic
"What was the 'Matsyanyaya' in Bengal?"
Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip
"The elections of Gopala and Nandivarman show that medieval Indian political theory allowed for public intervention when traditional structures collapsed."
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